Language Basics & Useful Phrases in Al Mijlad, Sudan

1. Basic Greetings

Learn common greetings such as 'Assalamu Alaikum' (Peace be upon you) and responses like 'Wa alaikum as-salam' (And upon you peace).

Cultural Sensitivity: Respects local customs by using appropriate greetings in Al Mijlad.
Ease of Communication: Facilitates smooth interactions with locals.
Avoidance of Misunderstanding: Prevents miscommunication in everyday encounters.

Practice phrases like 'Kayfa halik?' (How are you?), 'Shukran' (Thank you), and 'La shukran' (No thank you).

Politeness: Demonstrates courtesy and respect in daily interactions.
Essential Expressions: Covers basic expressions needed for everyday conversations.
Local Integration: Helps travelers blend in with the local community.

Learn essential phrases like 'Wahtdoo?' (Where is?) and 'As-sudor' (Help!) for emergencies.

Know numbers from 1 to 10 to ask for prices or give directions.

Practicality: Addresses the need for numerical understanding in daily transactions.
Ease of Navigation: Facilitates movement and orientation within the city.
Basic Math Skills: Supports simple calculations like counting money or estimating quantities.

Learn phrases for transportation such as 'Et-toon?' (What's the fare?) and 'Ittafuq li' (Take me there).

Mobility: Enables travelers to move around the city with ease.
Cost-Effectiveness: Helps manage transportation costs by understanding fares.
Direction and Navigation: Assists travelers in reaching their desired destinations.

Practice phrases like 'Ma shi ana saheel bi' (I am not feeling well) when dining.

Health and Safety: Ensures food safety by expressing dietary concerns or discomfort.
Dining Experience: Improves dining experience by facilitating communication with servers.
Cultural Understanding: Gain insight into local culinary traditions and practices.

Learn phrases like 'Ana ahwal shuyoo' (I want to buy) and 'Afadhal astanzeel' (Can you lower the price?)

Learn phrases for haggling like 'Inti min fi saheel' (Is it in good condition?) and 'Ana ahwal shuyoo' (I want to buy).

Cost Savings: Allows travelers to save money through effective bargaining.
Bargaining Skills: Improves haggling skills for a better deal.
Cultural Exchange: Participates in the local tradition of haggling in markets.

Practice phrases for time such as 'Masa' al-fajr' (Fajr prayer time) and 'Inti min fi saheel?' (What time is it?)

Time Management: Helps manage travelers' schedules and appointments.
Local Customs: Understands the local way of telling time and prayer times.
Smooth Interactions: Facilitates smooth interactions with locals regarding time.

Learn polite ways to say 'no' like 'La' (No) or 'Ana ma fi khayar' (I don't prefer).

Respect and Courtesy: Maintains respect and courtesy when declining offers.
Avoidance of Offense: Prevents offense by using polite refusals.
Personal Preference: Allows travelers to express their personal preferences.

Learn the proper way to address people like 'Ayuha' (Oh) followed by their name for respect.

Respect and Honor: Shows respect and honor to local customs.
Cultural Understanding: Deepens understanding of local customs and etiquette.
Personal Connection: Establishes a personal connection with locals.

Practice asking yes/no questions using 'Hal' (Is it?) followed by a noun.

Clarity in Communication: Ensures clarity and avoids misunderstandings.
Question Formulation: Learns how to ask yes/no questions in the local language.
Local Customs: Understands local question formation and its nuances.

Learn to name popular countries in Arabic such as 'Al-Watan al-Arabi' (Arabia) or 'Al-Misr' (Egypt).

Global Awareness: Demonstrates knowledge of various countries and regions.
Cross-Cultural Communication: Fosters communication with travelers from other nationalities.
Local Integration: Helps travelers integrate with the local community.

Learn traditional greetings like 'Marsalmakom' (Welcome) and 'Tawfiq' (May you find what you are looking for).

Respect and Appreciation: Shows respect and appreciation to local traditions.
Cultural Exchange: Participates in the exchange of cultural values and beliefs.
Hospitality: Promotes a welcoming and hospitable environment for travelers.

Learn local proverbs like 'An-Nas Yaraq Al-Fal' (The people are quick to anger) or 'Al-Ard Mubarakah' (The earth is blessed).